408474 Tue Jun 05 13:50:28 -0700 2007 173 34 Wine 0 2632372 I love wine and don't mind spending on a great bottle. But who doesn't love a great bargain wine. My recent $15 find which I really enjoy is the 2004 Marques Casa de Concha, Chili, Cabernet Sauvignon. Notes of dried fig, black cherry, vanilla and coffee and soft tannins. What are your favorites? Nothing over $20 please. Tue Jun 05 13:50:28 -0700 2007 93377 chrystaldawn 1 2632462 I had a Sutter Home 2004 chardonnay on the weekend. It was about $13 a bottle. It was so cool, smooth and refreshing with a wonderful brightness of fruity overtones like peachy appley meloney flavours. It really caught me by surprise; I haven't had a pleasant chardonnay like that for a long time. Tue Jun 05 14:15:44 -0700 2007 2632372 99056 quixotequest 1 2632780 This would be a very difficult question to answer fully, as space would not allow. Most wines I enjoy are under $15. I especially enjoy Italian wines, which are almost always around $15 except for my Brunello, Barbaresco and Barolo purchases. A more difficult proposal would be good wine under $10. My entries would be 2004 Falesco, Vitiano $7.89 (a Gambero Rosso 2 red glass winner); 2003 Banfi, Chianti Classico $9.99; 2001 Mazzocco, Zinfandel $8.25; 2003 Castello di Fabbrica, Chianti Classico $8.95; 2003 Fazi Battaglia, Marche, Estate Sangiovese $9.99; 2003 Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel $8.99: 2005 Fetzer “Valley Oaks“ Gewurztraminer $5.99; 2002 Chateau St. Jean “California” Merlot $8.98; 2003 Guilhem Durand, Vin de Pays d’Hauterive $8.95; 2002 14 Hands Merlot $7.95 and so forth. Later vintages may be a dollar or two more, but I am drinking these now. Tue Jun 05 15:39:47 -0700 2007 2632372 14128 BN1 2 3275142 A couple of nice Italians for under $10... Di Majo Norante Sangiovese, Amano Primitivo Puglia. Tue Jan 08 15:19:43 -0800 2008 2632780 128080 knowspicker 3 3275670 Yes, I thought the Di Majo Norante was surprisingly good for the money. Tue Jan 08 18:04:16 -0800 2008 3275142 14128 BN1 1 2632803 we just had a Honey Moon viognier that was delicious and I think about $5. It reminded me of Jasmine tea with honey and Asian pear. A nice summer surprise. Tue Jun 05 15:46:45 -0700 2007 2632372 10580 Betty 2 2632807 I like the Honey Moon Viognier, too. The only place I've seen it is Trader Joe's. Tue Jun 05 15:48:56 -0700 2007 2632803 76025 mojoeater 3 2636864 Yes it was in a care package from TJ's (we don't have them here) Wed Jun 06 17:41:33 -0700 2007 2632807 10580 Betty 4 5186445 Also pleasantly surprised by the Honey Moon from Trader Joe's. I've also had a couple of Albarinos for right around $15 that were very good, but I can't remember which one. I'll have to take a look next time I'm at the store! Mon Nov 16 14:08:42 -0800 2009 2636864 166809 alitria 1 2632839 I love the Provencal roses, most of which come in at about $15. I know they became trendy last year when the hip hop crowd discovered them ( http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/bizfocus/archives/2006/08/06/2003322092 ) but I refuse to abandon them for some more obscure, aficionados-only treat. If some people mistake me for P. Diddy that's just a cross I'll have to bear. Although, actually, that has not happened yet for some reason. Tue Jun 05 16:00:17 -0700 2007 2632372 41118 inuksuk 2 2633486 Dang, I must be behind the curve, as I am still trying to get my wine-snob buddies to embrace Rosés. Even top-line Tavels are met with disdain, since they are "pink." Hey, maybe I can play the P-Diddy card. As an aside, I usually do not care what is in, or out. I buy/drink what I like, and the consensus be dam#@^d. I was glad, on one hand, when "Sideways," became a hit, as the few good domestic (US) Merlots were being sold-off. OTOH, I was glad that I had a good stock of PNs, as they became the "darlings." I passed on several trips to the Central Coast Area, just because I did not want the crowds. During that time, Napa was almost deserted, and I did not complain, one bit. Hunt Tue Jun 05 19:48:02 -0700 2007 2632839 11329 Bill Hunt 3 2633857 Not behind the curve at all. Rose has it's place. I enjoy a rose w/ BBQ shrimp with a spicy sauce. Your wine-snob friends wouldn't turn their noses up at this combination of Sweet/Spicy. Tue Jun 05 22:17:40 -0700 2007 2633486 93377 chrystaldawn 4 2636884 I've been doing Rosés for years, and especially love them with lighter summer fare. Heck, if I admit it, I probably started with Rosés (Lancer's & Mateus), then moved on, only to re-discover better ones, years later. Somehow, I totally missed the White Zin craze. My comment was basically regarding the new popularity of Rosés now. Seems logical, as they are fun, refreshing, usually food-friendly and not that expensive - that is, until they become the next "Hot Wine." OTOH, maybe even more of the Central Coast folk will explore them, using some of the European (and a few domestic ones) Rosés as a template. For general food pairing, I find that Rosé sparklers and Champagnes cover a very broad spectrum. When at a loss for what to pair, I'll usually fall back to one of these. Thanks for the update on the popularity of the wines. Though, in my local paper, just this morning, there was a spread on Rosé parties! You were right on track. Hunt Wed Jun 06 17:47:50 -0700 2007 2633857 11329 Bill Hunt 5 2654947 Hey, the word is spreading. Catch this article in today's Chicago Tribune: http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/dining/chi-uncorked_rose_6jun06,1,2606944.column?coll=chi-leisuregoodeating-hed&ctrack=1&cset=true Tue Jun 12 22:09:31 -0700 2007 2636884 41118 inuksuk 5 4459005 I remember a time when the ONLY wines I knew of were Lancer's, Mateuse and Blue Nun. The first two had the added benefit of coming in bottles that were candle-worthy. I enjoy a good rose in summer, and tried a nice Tavel (at your suggestion) just a couple of weeks ago for the first time. Loved it! Fri Feb 27 15:35:38 -0800 2009 2636884 49600 CindyJ 6 4823265 For "candle-worthy" in those days, we nearly always relied on several Chianti offerings, that were sold in fiachi, with the wicker wrappings. Still, Lancer's was served a lot in our household in the early '70s. Hunt Wed Jul 01 20:32:03 -0700 2009 4459005 11329 Bill Hunt 3 4456367 crowds? on the central coast? what central coast were you visiting? and what time of year?? Thu Feb 26 20:42:31 -0800 2009 2633486 269637 wineninja 4 4456436 I gather you haven''t seen Sideways. Thu Feb 26 21:26:58 -0800 2009 4456367 10133 wally 5 4456453 I have seen it. Twice, sadly. Thu Feb 26 21:34:51 -0800 2009 4456436 269637 wineninja 3 4635131 weird-- it's *only* my wine snob buddies who drink rose with me. Tue Apr 28 06:21:35 -0700 2009 2633486 185225 Pigloader 4 5024956 Ditto. We just freakin' love it! Sat Sep 12 13:33:29 -0700 2009 4635131 92744 invinotheresverde 3 5025216 Love your attitude, Bill. Shouldn't have passed on the central coast but just gone a little further north for the emerging Rhone varietals of the SLO, Paso Robles areas (which I'm sure you're aware of). All the craziness was to the south of basically Lompoc leaving the northern AVAs available for a pleasant journey. Sat Sep 12 15:43:52 -0700 2009 2633486 18150 PolarBear 2 3092817 Although I like collecting and drinking wine, I particularly like to buy tavel by the case and store it. I find that it gets better with age, and there is no one i know (yet) who would say that it doesn't pair with good foods and cheeses -or drink well by itself (or with moderately spicy foods). Of course, the unseen "cost" of keeping these around for years is unknown - but I like the flexibility of being able to drink these anytime between 0 and 15 years (just opened a 12 year old tavel the other day - it was excellent). Sat Nov 03 18:00:22 -0700 2007 2632839 73480 cornFusion 1 2632853 I recently enjoyed a bottle from Australia. It is " Fetish Shiraz The Watcher Barossa " 750ml $16.99. Screw top..which I am still getting used. I really don't have the vocabulary to describe it but I would say it is smokey, complex and it reminded me a little of Stags Leap. ( Glad you said nothing over 20!) Tue Jun 05 16:05:49 -0700 2007 2632372 18739 tunapet 1 2632905 Chateau Ste Michelle Pinot Gris. $12. Tue Jun 05 16:27:27 -0700 2007 2632372 102650 creativeusername 1 2632936 great topic! i love La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, usually on sale for around $15 Tue Jun 05 16:36:46 -0700 2007 2632372 102350 m25111 2 4830069 second the recommendation for La Crema Sonoma Coast Chard. often carried by my local costco. Sat Jul 04 17:42:14 -0700 2009 2632936 11935 westsidegal 1 2633299 2005 Muscadet, Domaine de la Pepiere. Everything a muscadet should be. 2003 Penfolds Bin 2, Shiraz Mourvedre. Great everyday house red. Tue Jun 05 18:43:31 -0700 2007 2632372 97069 mengathon 1 2633371 In the $15 neighborhood (under $20 I'm pretty sure): 2004 Julien Meyer Heissenberg Gewurztraminer. Tue Jun 05 19:06:50 -0700 2007 2632372 99838 Dedalus 1 2633468 This one is easy, as most of our wines exceed the price-point. At, then, US$12.05/btl. the Glen Carlou Grand Classique (Bdx. blend) was the stunner. Now, I have not seen it in the PHX area for over a year, so do not know how the price might have changed. It, when released, was on par with many US$50/btl. Bdx. wines. Hunt Tue Jun 05 19:42:23 -0700 2007 2632372 11329 Bill Hunt 1 2633500 For me it is hard to beat clean local fruit (i.e. local wine that has not been heavily oaked [or oaked at all]). It retains those high notes that most of us don't get from wines from our wine shops. You really can't put a price on freshness (but it is typically under $15) Tue Jun 05 19:53:18 -0700 2007 2632372 26180 Chinon00 2 2633858 YUM!! I as well enjoy my whites unoaked!! Tue Jun 05 22:18:39 -0700 2007 2633500 93377 chrystaldawn 1 2633884 I am a big fan of Australian reds, a lot of which can be had for less than $15. One of my favorites is d'Arenberg's Stump Jump. I also second the Bogle Old Vines Zinfandel. Tue Jun 05 22:32:50 -0700 2007 2632372 77038 orthorunner 2 2634030 I Love a lot of D'arenberg!! Glad you mentioned it!! Wed Jun 06 00:20:24 -0700 2007 2633884 93377 chrystaldawn 1 2634220 Just a few of my faves . . . Whites: Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet Sèrve et Maine sur lie Domaine de l'Ecu Muscadet Sèrve et Maine sur lie, "Gneiss" Reds: Domaine des Terres Dorées Beaujolais à l'Ancienne Château d'Oupia Minervois Castelmaure Corbières Rouge, "Col des Vents" Château de Ségriès Lirac Domaine de la Mordorée Côtes du Rhône Domaine Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône Villages, "Les Champauvins" Rosé: Château de Ségriès Tavel Rosé Domaine de la Mordorée Côtes-du-Rhône Rosé Sparkling: Domaine Patrick Bottex Vin du Bugey Cerdon Domaine Renardat-Fâche Vin du Bugey Cerdon Wed Jun 06 05:53:40 -0700 2007 2632372 28122 zin1953 2 2634597 Great list. You can't go wrong with Muscadet for value (and so much else in the Loire; Chinon, Bourgeuil). Most of what I drink is less than $20. These were the best from the past week for me: Château Cabézac Cuvee Arthur Minervois $18 Cantalupo Colline Novaresi "Il Mimo" Nebbiolo rosé $13 Convento dei Cappuccini Brachetto d'Acqui $13 La Casaccia Grignolino "Poggeto" $10 Inama Soave Classico $12 Cantina Santa Maddalena Sudtirol St. Magdalener Classico $9 Wow you can get great stuff from Spain for under $20. Look at Ribera del Duero and some of the good stuff coming from La Mancha. 01 Bodegas Real Sitio de Ventosilla Prado Rey RdD Crianza $15 01 Marques de Riscal Rioja Reserva $10 (at PJwine; avoid the 02) 02 Marques de Tomares Rioja Crianza $15 01 Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez Vino de la Tierra Zamora Dehesa La Granja, $17 04 Bodegas Gormaz RdD $8 05 Bodegas Los Olmos RdD El Quintanal $8 Wed Jun 06 08:09:22 -0700 2007 2634220 16728 kenito799 3 2634623 I agree too that both lists are impressive but how many of these would we consider "widely available"? Wed Jun 06 08:16:24 -0700 2007 2634597 26180 Chinon00 4 2634668 well, I got most of that stuff from PJWine...they ship to most states...That makes them widely available! Wed Jun 06 08:28:55 -0700 2007 2634623 16728 kenito799 4 2635182 What does "widely available" mean? The problem with this site is that there is no way to easily know where someone lives. Most of the wines I listed are available in major markets in the U.S. (e.g.: New York City, San Francisco Bay Area, greater Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Miami, Washington DC metro area -- including Maryland and Virginia, etc., etc.) Most of the wines I listed are probably not available in Portland, Maine, Midland-Odessa, Texas, or Boise, Idaho -- but that's just a guess . . . . Certainly wines from large négociants will be more widely available -- that is, it should be MUCH easier to find (for example) a Côtes du Rhône from Guigal throughout the U.S. and Canada than it will be to find the ones from Château de Ségriès, Domaine de la Mordorée, or Domaine Grand Veneur; it will be easier to find the Beaujolais from Louis Jadot or (god forbid!) Duboeuf than it will be from Domaine des Terres Dorées . . . but in most cases, good though they are, they won't be *as* good as these. AND, many of these are available through retailers which sell online so -- depending upon the laws and regulations of the state in which one lives -- these wines may be available that way, too. Wed Jun 06 10:38:58 -0700 2007 2634623 28122 zin1953 5 2635361 clicking Chinon00 indicates that he lives in the tragically underserved state of PA...I hope s/he can frequently cross the border into the promised land of wine selection and bargains (NJ)... Wed Jun 06 11:12:59 -0700 2007 2635182 16728 kenito799 5 2636015 That‘s sort of my point. Often we can get very specific with our suggestions on here. And some wines obviously will be hard if not impossible to obtain easily for many of us (I've never ordered wine over the internet. I mostly still “brick and mortar” it). What I think is it would be more advantageous to provide regional-vintage suggestions, which would provide more leeway for many us. Wed Jun 06 13:31:15 -0700 2007 2635182 26180 Chinon00 6 2637169 I can count the number of times I have ordered wine via the internet on one hand . . . so I know the feeling. My point about where people live (most sites similar to this indicate it right on the same page as the person's post -- no need to go searching) is that *clearly* some wines are in more limited supply, and thus availability, than others. Small California wineries that produce, say, under 10,000 cases per year total, might not be available in PA or NJ . . . maybe in NY. But even so, not all of their wines will be available in NY; that 300 case lot of Pinot Noir may only be sold at the winery! However, there is a SERIOUS problem with offering "regional-vintage suggestions." For instance, I can say that 2012 is an excellent vintage in the Rhône, or for Napa Valley Cabernets, and that won't mean there are no $#!+ wines produced in that vintage and from that region. There certainly will be. Conversely, 2011 was a horrible vintage -- but that doesn't mean there aren't some gems worth seeking out and buying . . . Speaking for myself (and only for me), if I know someone is in (e.g.) Texas, I know there are certain wines I can recommend, and certain wines I can't -- they simply aren't sold there. The same is true with Pennsylvania. BUT . . . knowing you live in Pennsylvania . . . I would encourage you to look for affordable French wines from the South of France imported by Hand Picked Selections. HPS brings in some great wines, and many of them are available through the Pennsylvania state stores. Jason Wed Jun 06 19:41:09 -0700 2007 2636015 28122 zin1953 7 2637827 I agree. You can't recommend Rioja or Chianti because a lot of them aren't very good, often the ones that are most widely available. And 02 was supposed to be not a very good year in Rioja but Marques de Tomares 02 Crianza is excellent. But maybe I feel comfortable recommending that people try blindly from regions that are undervalued, like Muscadet or any of those obscure northern Italian areas...or ask at a knowledgable wine store (yes I realize difficult in PA but PA may be a lost cause...NJ is just across the bridge) if they have anything good from Ribera del Duero, etc. Actually I recently bought a good Chianti in Philly, Ricasoli Brolio, $18. Thu Jun 07 05:52:05 -0700 2007 2637169 16728 kenito799 4 2641056 Chinon00 have you ever posted a board asking other CH where they purchase their wine in PA!! A lot of wine shops I've experienced will special order items. I know some of us lucky enough to live in CA have an advantage to the wine purchasing. I lived in VA for a few years and found the task to be a bit more challenging. Once I became a regular at a couple of wine shops and befriended the associates they were able to get a few wines for me I wasn't able to find otherwise. Thu Jun 07 22:55:27 -0700 2007 2634623 93377 chrystaldawn 5 2641422 Maybe I am a bit handicapped in PA however my greater point is that I think that when we start to consider region or appellation when suggesting wine it serves those whom we are making the suggestion to better than merely suggesting a wine alone. So for instance if I want a fleshy low acid white wine wouldn't it better serve a person to suggest say Sicilian wine or other areas than listing specific producers and vintages? That way the person has a wider selection and thus a better shot at getting what they want. And it also starts to help them understand where wine that tastes that particular way comes from and why, broadening their understanding of wine in general. So in the future in front of a wine list or at the wine shoppe the person isn't trying to remember this Producer or that Vineyard but a region; one that they can be pretty sure will satisfy what they desire that evening. Fri Jun 08 06:43:21 -0700 2007 2641056 26180 Chinon00 6 2641546 Certainly, you have a point. However . . . I am a firm believer in the "laziness" of human nature. Thus, when people are looking for "a wine," BOTH the question itself and the answers are over simplified. Very few people ask for a wine in a particular style, for example, and most wines can be produced in a wide range . . . in response, most people throw out names of their personal favorites, with little regard to style, availability or even price (unless that it part of the original criteria, and even then they'll go over slightly). In an ideal world, the discussion would contain many more details: "You may want to look for ___________ wines that come from __________ because these types of wines _____________. Some of the better producers for _________ wines include _________, ___________, and __________. Good vintages for ____________ wines include _____, _______, and ________." For imported wines, the information may even include, "Importers to look for when it comes to _______ wines include ______________, _____________, and ____________." I would hope this would be the case. I ask where people are from in order to (hopefully) avoid the frustration of looking for wines they will never be able to find, and I often try to provide more information and a context to my suggestions, but sometimes there isn't any time -- I'm rushing off to work, have to answer the phone, take care of the kids, whatever. . . . Generally, however, I think most people are going to answer "2008 Chateau Cache Phloe Chardonnay." Jason Fri Jun 08 07:27:29 -0700 2007 2641422 28122 zin1953 7 4456373 EXACTLY!!! ha. i think i love you. Thu Feb 26 20:45:28 -0800 2009 2641546 269637 wineninja 6 2644140 Thanks for clarifying!! I see how that would be ideal especially for wines from outside the USA where there are strict laws about the making of wine and selections vary so much from store to store. As I'm sure you know in the states we don't have to follow any strict laws so to say all 2001 Napa Valley cabs are great is not always going to be the case. I just love it when I find a great bottle of wine without going over $20. So I wanted to share it and see what other people have found for under $20. I like the variety of answers, some wines I've had, some I might need to try. Fri Jun 08 23:31:03 -0700 2007 2641422 93377 chrystaldawn 3 2636878 Glad to see the Inama Soave Classico on your list. I love that wine! Wed Jun 06 17:45:38 -0700 2007 2634597 14610 bropaul 2 2634950 I like the selection of french wines you've shared I'm newer in my venture to french wines I am going to give a few of these a try!! Wed Jun 06 09:42:07 -0700 2007 2634220 93377 chrystaldawn 2 4456006 Simi Merlot, $12. zin1953, I'd love your take on the Simi wines. Thu Feb 26 18:09:39 -0800 2009 2634220 36312 HillJ 1 2634689 albarinos; roses; a particular vermentino "Costamolino"; riesling kabinetts; cotes du rhone; nero d avolas.... Wed Jun 06 08:36:29 -0700 2007 2632372 31795 ibstatguy 1 2635343 2003 San Giusto a Rentenanno Chianti Classico @ Woodland Hills Wine Company for $14.99 Wed Jun 06 11:09:07 -0700 2007 2632372 50041 whiner 1 2635359 "Nothing over $20 please." Oooo... in that case I can also include most recent vintages of Theo Minges Scheurebe Spatlese Gliesweiler Holle. Also, Sandler Zinfandel Very different wine from the Chianti. Have to contact Ed Kurtzman directly to get it, though. (415) 225-2891 Wed Jun 06 11:12:05 -0700 2007 2632372 50041 whiner 2 2662818 I have had that Scheurebe and it is wonderful! Fri Jun 15 07:18:41 -0700 2007 2635359 14083 cooknKate 1 2635390 Hope Estate Shiraz - was under $20. Chateau St. Michelle Reisling Bloom Reisling Wed Jun 06 11:19:48 -0700 2007 2632372 80736 Nestra 1 2636260 2002 Kamiak Red from Washington, $12.99. Wed Jun 06 14:32:25 -0700 2007 2632372 18825 Summerfield 2 2636561 I like all of Francis Coppola's wines. I just bought some Rosso for $4.71 per bottle, I really like the Rosso. The Claret is particularly nice, usually right around $15.00 Wed Jun 06 15:52:24 -0700 2007 2636260 96003 sarge 1 2636606 These are some of my favorite Spanish reds: Vina Alarba Old Vines Grenache (Garnacha), Calatayud Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha, Campo de Borja Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha, Calatayud I also like Silvano Follador Prosecco "Cartizze". Wed Jun 06 16:05:57 -0700 2007 2632372 23298 SanJoseHound 2 2637600 Altano Red, from Portugal. About $7 for 750ml. Thu Jun 07 00:05:07 -0700 2007 2636606 71221 Josie 2 2731695 Three of favorites, too. Add to that - Marrietta Old Vine Montes Alpha Cabernet Montes Alpha Syrah Mon Jul 09 07:52:11 -0700 2007 2636606 12473 Wineman 3 3103378 I am right there with you Wineman , PA Chairmans Selction usually has 2 of the 3. We also get a lot of good Aussie wines at the same price. PA can be a handicap because you can't ship from out of state , but they will special order. Wed Nov 07 09:47:52 -0800 2007 2731695 21541 tk467 3 4628716 Costco has a 25th anniv Montes Alpha Cab and its great - only 15.99 -- I was VERY surprised at how much I like it...highly recommended. Sat Apr 25 18:10:53 -0700 2009 2731695 69259 truefoodie 1 2641696 2003 Primus - Chile, Cab/Merlot/Carmenere blend I can't do tasting notes yet - but unmistakable blackberry most definitely. I felt that it exploded in my mouth! $14.99 Fri Jun 08 08:13:50 -0700 2007 2632372 14222 abowes 1 2641967 For six months I was obsessed by the very easy-to-find Navarra (Garnacha) by Artazuri. It costs around $14 here in New York and was utterly delightful with huge, fanciful clouds of raspberry supplemented by attractive notes of slate and chalk.... so nice with simple pasta! Spanish wines are an excellent value, in general. Fri Jun 08 09:18:13 -0700 2007 2632372 51367 Yaqo Homo 1 2654950 Borsao Campo de Borja, Spain. Less than $10: http://www.wineloverspage.com/wines/tn.phtml?id=458 Tue Jun 12 22:11:54 -0700 2007 2632372 54126 shiromaguro 1 2656879 Elsa Malbec. About $7.00 a bottle but tastes like it should cost more. Wed Jun 13 12:58:15 -0700 2007 2632372 53854 WyCo 1 2662394 Gunderloch "Jean Baptiste" Kabinett ("off dry" German riesling). Forgot which vintage (maybe 2001, a good vintage). The 2005 is $16 at K&L. It was a relevation for me since I didn't think I liked residual sugar in wine. Turns out most CA wineries just can't make riesling the way the Germans do it. The very light sweetness was perfectly balanced by the acidity (which I think comes from the region's colder climate). I finally understood the appeal of "minerality" in rieslings. All that combined with the typical ripe fruit (mostly peach) and the most satisfying finish I can remember. Fri Jun 15 00:26:45 -0700 2007 2632372 40520 HungryMojo 2 2662402 My vote is on Kim Crawford SB 2005/2006 $13.99!!! Also Husch Pinot Noir $15.99 Fri Jun 15 00:44:59 -0700 2007 2662394 104704 sweetnspicy 3 2662739 Banfi Centine, a Sangiovese/Cab/Merlot blend from Italy: around $10. Bogle's Petite Sirah: around $10. Moana Park Pascoe Series Sauvignon Blanc, a minerally, Sancerre-style wine from New Zealand: around $15. Fri Jun 15 06:55:20 -0700 2007 2662402 104856 Jocelyn P 1 2662841 This list is heavily skewed towards Southern hemisphere reds, but lately those have been my passion 2003 Bodegas Tikalo ‘Rubens’ Tierra de Castilla Tempranillo Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec 2004 Carchelo 2005 Monastrell Mourvedre Altos Las Hormigas 2005 Malbec La Joya Reserve 2004 Carmenere Palmela Tradicao 2000 Portugal Vinho Tinto 2003 Venta Mazzaron Tempranillo 2005 Konyari Sigillum Loliense (Hungary-blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling) Fri Jun 15 07:24:00 -0700 2007 2632372 14083 cooknKate 1 2663062 Foxglove 2005 Edna Valley chardonnay is very nice. Parker gave it a 90, for what that's worth. Fri Jun 15 08:25:13 -0700 2007 2632372 11117 SteveTimko 2 4315915 I see the 2007 has also garnered 90 points from Parker, can you suggest a retail source? Sun Jan 11 08:59:32 -0800 2009 2663062 11234 toodie jane 1 2664665 One of my favorites is Oracle Shiraz (South Africa)...rich and velvety...and $5.99 at Wine Legend in Cherry Hill. :) Fri Jun 15 15:37:20 -0700 2007 2632372 51540 MartiniQueen 1 2664767 Great suggestions - especially the Spanish Reds, which I agree are a good bargain. We're enjoying reds from South America lately and LOVE the Norton Malbec! The Reserva is usually around $15, the regular is about $9. I think for the money, the Reserva is the way to go, but either are great choices! Fri Jun 15 16:11:47 -0700 2007 2632372 101720 tsays 1 2667664 The 96 Fetzer "johanisberg" riesling. A 6 dollar bottle of wine that won the California State Fair wine contest over something like 2,000 other wines. Like honey. Sun Jun 17 02:43:01 -0700 2007 2632372 42549 Chicago Mike 1 2727077 For a great summer white the Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc can't be beat (12.99 at Costco) - for a nice red the Marques Phillipes Syrah is tasty at about $14 - also the Norton Bodega Reserve Malbec at about $12 is quite good, too. Sat Jul 07 08:59:09 -0700 2007 2632372 69259 truefoodie 2 2727241 I've had all of those and agree wholly with you!! Sat Jul 07 10:17:38 -0700 2007 2727077 104704 sweetnspicy 3 2728399 Columbia Crest Two Vines Shiraz at $7.00 is consistently very good to excellent and easy to find. Sat Jul 07 20:23:49 -0700 2007 2727241 50082 TonyO 1 2730947 2004 Chateau Pesquie "Les Terraces" Cotes du Ventoux Grenache/Shiraz is an unbelievable value at $14 Canadian including all taxes (in Ontario). If you get it in your market, buy it by the case! This wine consistently garners 89-90 Parker points, for those of you that care. Sun Jul 08 21:25:51 -0700 2007 2632372 16797 bogie 2 2743582 At the last "tasting group" we had about four months ago, we sampled S. American wines (Chile/Argentina) and of the 20 people attending, the #1 winner of the evening BY FAR was: Crios Torrontes (Argentina) - about $15 If you have a chance to try any Torrontes, give it a shot this summer...really nice tropical aromas/flavors with vibrant acidity to match. (Fyi our wine company doesn't represent the Crios -- it's just one of those brands that is really generating some positive industry buzz and uniformly making excellent wines). Thu Jul 12 11:14:52 -0700 2007 2730947 67199 Vinoguy 1 2743673 Great subject. I try for $10's that taste like $30's ( hard to find!). Dry Creek fume blanc, Hedges blends(Chard/fume; merlot, cab). For those who like the Norton malbec, try the "High Altitude". Drouhin is a good value negotiant. Thu Jul 12 11:35:00 -0700 2007 2632372 29159 trail 6 1 2744826 Guenoc Petite Syrah - the Lake County is usually about $18 and the other one (sorry, don't know which one) is usually about $10 at my grocery store. I drink the $10 one when I'm having a glass or 2. I drink the Lake County on the weekends. Both are perfect. I also can't do tasting notes, but if you like Petite Syrah, Guenoc is the winery for you. Thu Jul 12 16:59:17 -0700 2007 2632372 49086 amyvc 1 2745084 2006 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough $11.99 Francois Montand- Sparkling $9.99 2004 Fat Bastard- Chardonnay- $9.99 2004 Scenario- Chard- $9.99 Mark West- Pinor Noir- $9.99 Rosenblum Zinfandel Vintner's Cuvee XXIX - $8.99 2003 Georges Viornery Brouilly (Beaujolais) $12.99 2003 Domaine de Rully St. Michel Les Champs Cloux (Red) $16.99 (close enough and a good Burgundy pinot noir) 2004 Las Rocas Garnacha (Calatayud) $7.99 Thu Jul 12 18:39:07 -0700 2007 2632372 14640 Sobe 2 2745177 Try - FETZER Gerwurtztraminer - it's excellent! Everyone I've recommended this wine to has LOVED IT... good "goldilocks" (not too sweet - not too dry) wine for all occasions. We're HOOKED... Thu Jul 12 19:21:31 -0700 2007 2745084 18770 Sallieb190 3 2746331 Hogue Reisling. It's my summer wine. I keep a bottle in the fridge all the time. Good for just kicking back and having a glass. The bartender at my country club started picking up a couple of bottles when I asked if he had any Reisling and he didn't. Now, he has to buy it by the case - some others are asking for it, too. Fri Jul 13 08:28:47 -0700 2007 2745177 21161 scabbardgirl 2 3002866 I second that with the Kim C and the Mark West. Very ood wines for a good price!!! Thu Oct 04 00:29:28 -0700 2007 2745084 131642 SFGourmande 1 2749098 For under $10: Crystalino is a rose sparkling that I was frankly surprised to enjoy as much as I did. I think we paid $7 for it, actually. Tosti Asti Spumante, that you can buy at most groceries stories, like $8-10. Easy drinking, refreshing. One of my guilty pleasures to be drinking this mass produced cheap wine since I most often drink from small producers. You can take both of these on summer picnics on the boat when you're having burgers and not dining with oenophiles. Others for under $20: La Doyenne, Bordeaux. An amazing wine for under $20 when you can get it. I can't locally right now, otherwise I'd never mention it. Chateaux Haut Dambert. An acceptable substitute if you can't get La Doyenne. I'm drinking half of my 2003 atm, and saving the other half for a bit. Orfila Vineyards, in of all places, San Diego County. We stopped in for a "tasting" just for a lark. I never never never expected to find wines as good as this anywhere this far south in California. Their winemaker is pretty darn good, particularly for their whites. I'll start by recommending their 2005 Lotus or their 2005 Muscat Canelli or their 2005 Gewurtztraminer. 2005 St. Christopher Gewurztraminer. Rheinhessen. $10. Woot. A real find by my spouse. I need to try the Fetzer Gewurtz, thank you. Sat Jul 14 06:33:30 -0700 2007 2632372 83832 fussycouple 2 2749301 >>> Orfila Vineyards, in of all places, San Diego County. We stopped in for a "tasting" just for a lark. I never never never expected to find wines as good as this anywhere this far south in California. Their winemaker is pretty darn good, particularly for their whites . . . <<< Orfla -- http://www.orfila.com/ -- is the ONLY winery I recommend to people visiting that far south. It is clearly heads and shoulders above anything in Temecula, for example, and the winery would be much better known if it was located elsewhere. Their winemaker, Leon Santoro, is a refuge from Napa Valley with many years of experience at places including Louis M. Martini, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, and Quail Ridge. He is also someone I've known for almost 30 years. Jason Sat Jul 14 08:37:27 -0700 2007 2749098 28122 zin1953 3 2749787 O"Reilly's 2006 Pinot Noir. Great wine that improved on day two with a little aeration. Sat Jul 14 12:47:43 -0700 2007 2749301 50082 TonyO 3 3002855 Ahh, Orfila Vineyards, I am a former employee there and even if I wasn't "biased" I would recommend this as a top choice for visitors and locals to explore. I have tried all of the local wines and have found Leon's wines to be far above all others. I have even passed the wine on to friends and family in other states, and have gotten rave reviews and reorders for more. My particular favorites and recommendations to try are... 04 Estate Syrah, Lot 45 Estate Lotus (viognier, marsanne and rousanne blend), and of course the Estate Sangiovese (any vintage year). I just back from visiting Napa Valley and have found some other tasty treats such as Peju's Syrah and Chimney Rock's 03 Cabernet Sauvignon. Cheers to all and your wonderful recommendations, can't wait to try some of the French wines listed on here. Thu Oct 04 00:10:37 -0700 2007 2749301 132093 Lizzygrace 3 3003765 Ditto ZIn's rec on Orfila and Leon. Incidentally, my uncle is very good friends and consults for Leon's winery; for our family gatherings, he always pulls out an Orfila for us they're always tasty. Thu Oct 04 09:01:40 -0700 2007 2749301 74451 vinosnob 3 3265591 zin - we were married at orfila oct 2006! i have long been a fan of their whites especially, and also their sangiovese. we live in san diego and love that we are able to visit orfila anytime we want. we do picnics there frequently. their viognier and bien nacido chard (albeit not from their vineyard) are my faves. $18 for the chard, the vioginer wouldn't make the cut on this list of under $20 though. my rec for a wine under $20 is nine stones 2003 mclaren vale shiraz. so easily drinkable and smoo-oo-ooth. i nearly did a doubletake the first time i sipped it. like buttah!!! Sat Jan 05 20:17:16 -0800 2008 2749301 122701 beachbunnySD 1 2750134 Greek wine is a superb value, in my experience, if you know what to look for. Lantides Moschofilero should set you back between $12-$15, and it's a revelation. Reminded me of a top-notch dry gewurtztraminer for a fraction of the cost; an aggressive, moderatley acidic, fragrant wine perfect for all sorts of strongly-flavored food. Sat Jul 14 16:02:47 -0700 2007 2632372 51367 Yaqo Homo 2 3004399 Interesting! I foresee a steel-cage death match between the 2005 basic Zind-Humbrecht bottling and this Moschofilero (and perhaps a Triple Threat match with the Fogarty gewurz), in the interests of Science :-). Thanks for the tip! I love a well-made Gewurz but I don't particularly like the tariff involved. Thu Oct 04 11:11:40 -0700 2007 2750134 72925 ttriche 1 3002865 I just discovered the Robert Hall California Coastal Blend from Paso Robles - $12 and sooo good that I went back another day and got another bottle. So drinkable! I also really like the Kim Crawford Savig. Blanc and the Pacific Dry Rim Reisling (dry not sweet, hate sweet!) from Bonnie Doon. So worth it! I think Trader Joes actually carries all of these! Thu Oct 04 00:28:19 -0700 2007 2632372 131642 SFGourmande 2 4628699 Second on the Robert and the Kim - both way better than their price tags would suggest. In the under $15, I also love the Marquis Phillips Syrah and the much mentioned Norton Reserve Malbec. Sat Apr 25 18:02:37 -0700 2009 3002865 69259 truefoodie 1 3002874 I've been a fan of Barefoot merlots. They're under $15 and surprisingly tasty. Thu Oct 04 01:05:25 -0700 2007 2632372 132098 Aychacha 2 3033811 The Barefoot chardonnay and pinot grigio are also good. Sun Oct 14 15:13:59 -0700 2007 3002874 113872 diablo 1 3003452 I don't trust Bordeaux's in this price range, but have had great luck with Bergerac's, both red and white. dave Thu Oct 04 07:46:14 -0700 2007 2632372 119739 davebough 1 3003528 I'm amazed that no one has mentioned any of the Beaujolais crus. They are almost all available for less than 15 bucks a pop, and in many vintages, are terrific values. the "03s and '05s are excellent, and most(05) are 12-14 per bottle. Morgon domaine Mont Chavy '05, Domaine du quatre vents 05 are just 2 that I've found to be delicious. Thu Oct 04 08:08:52 -0700 2007 2632372 106255 chazzerking 2 3004407 I was just thinking that -- Gamay is a lovely happy grape and in good vintages, the QPR of Beaujolais (Villages or Cru) seems to walk all over its red-tinted neighbors. 05 and 06 appear to be the epitome of this trend. Thu Oct 04 11:13:31 -0700 2007 3003528 72925 ttriche 2 3084098 Just had the '05 Domaine des Quatre Vents Fleurie. Superb. Nose of raspberry ganache, graphite in the middle of the mouth. And incredibly versatile. It went well with both California rolls and steak teriyaki. Wed Oct 31 15:00:33 -0700 2007 3003528 97069 mengathon 1 3004448 Hard to decide on this one. Every well-made Albarino I have tried, everything containing Greco or Falanghina (particularly an IGT from Lazio which combined the two), every cheap Vouvray (demi-sec), and every Carmenere I have tried thus far was very tasty and under $15. (I just realized that I haven't tasted a Cabernet Sauvignon in several months) Probably the single best QPR I have ever come across in a wine was a Hungarian white made from Cserzegi Fuszeres, a cross of Gewurz and Irsay Oliver. (I have never tasted the latter by itself, but the cross turned out a wine with Gewurz nose and Sauvignon Blanc palate) Someone else recommended it, and at $1.99 from Trader Joe's, why not? Even if I poured half the bottle down the drain, I figured it cost less than a tall boy of Tecate. For $2 I don't think anything else comes close to delivering the same punch. I don't buy a lot of it becase, even at 500% of what I expected (pretty much what I'd rate its QPR), there are still lots of other exciting things out there to drink, and I only drink 3-4 times a week with dinner, so it doesn't make sense for me to revisit even the best-value bottles too often. Thu Oct 04 11:20:01 -0700 2007 2632372 72925 ttriche 1 3008465 Folie a Deux Menage a Trois Rose $12 Fri Oct 05 12:32:03 -0700 2007 2632372 74399 fyoulady 1 3008637 There are tons and tons of great wine under $15 but many are hard to find and you have to kiss a lot of toads to find the prince. Believe me, I kiss a lot of toads. As a fairly widely distributed brand Castle Rock is pretty hard to beat across the board. Varner's Foxglove Chardonnay is outstanding and a steal if you can find it. Fri Oct 05 13:21:09 -0700 2007 2632372 113095 jock 2 3056067 So glad I finally saw Castle Rock listed - I love their Pinot Noir and I can always find it for less than $15. Mon Oct 22 08:34:27 -0700 2007 3008637 77221 AlliRIC 1 3033248 Recently, I was so impressed with a French Rhone blend that I decided to make it the first Cellar Selection on my Food Czar blog. Perrin & Fils Vacqueras Les Christins retails for around $14, skillfully blending 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah into a heady brew with "ripe fig, licorice, and currant paste flavors, backed by cocoa and graphite notes.....(with a) dark, muscular finish." In addition, cellaring for one to three years is recommended, although it makes a perfectly delightful quaff right now, as is, or as an accompaniment to strong meats and cheeses. Sun Oct 14 09:55:13 -0700 2007 2632372 133862 Thefoodczar 1 3033782 I agree, under $15 is too difficult for me. Allmost everything I drink is under $15. How about under $10? I work in a wine store and I think that the best value in the store is the Garnacha de Fluego. It is Spanish, from the Bodegas Zabrin in Calatayud. From old vines, it is loaded with raspberry and cherry fruit a with loamy soil and spice nose. It sells for $5.99. Sun Oct 14 14:58:37 -0700 2007 2632372 12473 Wineman 1 3058022 I'm a big fan of Casa de Ermita's Monastario Santa Ana label. It is, I believe, a tempranillo. A case won't run you more than $90. Also recently tried Caballo Negro's cab sauv and at $10, it is another great every-night sort of wine. Mon Oct 22 19:30:11 -0700 2007 2632372 42777 GJWhite 1 3064732 2003 Sagelands Merlot~ Right about $10. A great go-to bottle! Wed Oct 24 17:48:02 -0700 2007 2632372 135133 washingtonred 1 3066621 Great thread! Every time I thought of one I love, someone listed it. So, I'll list them again. :D Cristalino Brut Codorniu Brut Rose Korbel Brut Rose (don't snub your nose at this Korbel) Bogle Petite Syrah Norton Malbec (I just bought the reserve the other day and can't wait to try that!) Screw Kappa Napa Cabernet (don't let the goofy name fool you) King Estate Pinot Gris Thu Oct 25 10:45:05 -0700 2007 2632372 40464 OysterHo 1 3066800 had a Castano "Solanera" this week, 10.99, very nice QPR Thu Oct 25 11:24:33 -0700 2007 2632372 31795 ibstatguy 1 3083325 Sauvingnon Blanc: Babich (New Zealand). Incredible QPR Wed Oct 31 11:32:17 -0700 2007 2632372 53209 gustasopher 1 3088357 Most recently: 2004 Bodegas Castaño Monastrell Yecla Hécula for $12.99 from my local (NYC) wine shop. ~Eddie www.oeno.blogspot.com Fri Nov 02 04:22:12 -0700 2007 2632372 139638 Eddie H. 2 3272129 Eddie, I just had the wine you talked about tonight, and it is excellent. I pay a bit more in Canada ($15) but the Hecula is worth every penny. Some might find it a tad sweet and fruity, but I found those qualities to be balanced by a noticeable but not overpowering tar and leather earthiness. Mon Jan 07 20:12:04 -0800 2008 3088357 99971 anewton 1 3274629 Traditional (a red, forgot details: I think it was a blend of different varietals, not sure what vintage) - wine consultant suggested it and it was delicious and under $15 . Rioja - Marques de Riscal, 2003 - the only wine I ever seem to buy at Trader Joe's Wine Shop it's either $14.99 or $12.99 Lincourt chardonnay 2004 - lovely, can't find it anymore New Zealand, Brancott, sauvignon blanc, reserve - might have been $17 not $15, a favorite, can't find it anymore. I think it was rated around 90 by Wine Spectator too. Tue Jan 08 13:21:44 -0800 2008 2632372 73159 financialdistrictresident 2 3275409 Honig 2003-04 Sauvignon Blanc about 13-15 Edna Valley 06' Chardonnay 10 bucks at TJ's both so easy to drink! Tue Jan 08 16:46:49 -0800 2008 3274629 17438 trolley 3 3283139 Thanks, trolley. As you can see I have a tough time finding a white I like. Reds are far more interesting. I've had a Honig sauvignon blanc at Houston's, delicious (but depressing $$$ by the glass and with the markup). Thu Jan 10 17:19:10 -0800 2008 3275409 73159 financialdistrictresident 4 3283571 i have the opposite problem. i can find plenty of whites under $15 but have a hard tine finding red i like under $30. palacio de menade 2005 is a white spanish wine that runs under $10 is another one of my favorites. it's not easy to find in my area but i have and it's another one of my favorites. st supery also makes a great sauvignon blanc. grapefruit and grassy taste. very fresh! Thu Jan 10 19:43:45 -0800 2008 3283139 17438 trolley 3 3302751 Went to Trader Joe's to pick up some rioja. Gone. Asked about the Honig (thanks again for the rec, trolley). Gone. Picked up some King Shag, sauvignon blanc, New Zealand, 2007 @ $7.99. Sitting beside it on the shelf was the The WS rated 87 Brancott sauvignon blanc @ $2 more. Drinking the King Shag as I type (gotta love the name). May have found a new reasonable white to enjoy. Wed Jan 16 16:16:31 -0800 2008 3275409 73159 financialdistrictresident 1 3275423 bonny doon pacific rim reisling Tue Jan 08 16:52:52 -0800 2008 2632372 151403 jeremypb 1 3275657 2004 Pietra Santa, Sangiovese, Cienega Valley, $9.95 2004 Pedroncelli, Sangiovese, “Alto Vineyards”, Dry Creek Valley,$9.99 (2002 $8.00) 2005 C.G. di Arie, Zinfandel, Amador. $13.69 2006 Abel Clément, Côtes du Rhône, Blanc, $5.99 2005 Domaine Grand Veneur, Côtes du Rhône Villages, “Les Champauvins”, $12.99 Most all Calif. Sauvignon Blancs and Viogniers purchased under $15.00 Tue Jan 08 17:59:25 -0800 2008 2632372 14128 BN1 1 3277055 Year after year I like Marietta Old Vine Red (mostly Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Carignane) and d'Arenberg Stump Jump Red (Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvedre) Wed Jan 09 08:35:13 -0800 2008 2632372 128359 jcoz23 1 3288517 Another is a nero di Troia from the producer Santa Lucia. Shouldn't run you more than $13 and it is just a fantastic little Pugliese wine. Sat Jan 12 11:59:29 -0800 2008 2632372 42777 GJWhite 1 3301946 My 2 favorite cheap fallback wines are 1)Torres Sangre de Toro. Tasty Spanish blend. Last year was their 50th anniversary vintage and the best one I've had in years. 2) Rex Goliath's 47 Pound Rooster Pinot Noir. Both about 10 bucks. Wed Jan 16 13:05:52 -0800 2008 2632372 150096 jackbauer 2 3302018 Does the Sangre de Toro still come with the little plastic bull? I remember when (1) the wine was about $5-6; and (2) I had a whole herd of little black plastic bulls collected on my kitchen counter. Wed Jan 16 13:20:18 -0800 2008 3301946 35525 Frodnesor 3 3305666 Yes indeed. Nobody dares to walk around my apartment barefoot 'cause they might get the horns. The 50th anniversary vintage had a gold bull. I have about 4 dozen of those. Thu Jan 17 12:17:11 -0800 2008 3302018 150096 jackbauer 2 3304266 Those Rex Goliath's are pretty tasty for the price. The ones I've had were a bit minerally, a nice change of pace from the usual crap you get, even at $10-14 Thu Jan 17 07:11:43 -0800 2008 3301946 124704 Icantread 2 3313103 I got the rex goliath for 6.99 at trader joes today and it's really great! thanks for the suggestion. i feel like i found my $10 and under house red wine now. Sat Jan 19 20:12:39 -0800 2008 3301946 17438 trolley 3 3314031 A delicious find from the weekend: Concha Y Toro Winemakers' Lot 152 Carmenere 2005. Was $19.88 in BC, but I bet that you could find it for $15 in the US. Both my wife and I loved this wine: it had the smoky qualities typical of Carmenere but had some interesting cinnamon and clove notes, and the fruit was not overpowering or murky, as can be the case with Carmenere. Definitely a floral bouquet. Highly recommended. Sun Jan 20 09:18:41 -0800 2008 3313103 99971 anewton 3 3321115 Wow, $6.99? I feel happy when I find it for 9 bucks. Going to have to go to TJ's from now on. Thanks! Tue Jan 22 12:26:39 -0800 2008 3313103 150096 jackbauer 1 3305083 Liberty School gets my vote. Thu Jan 17 10:15:19 -0800 2008 2632372 53854 WyCo 2 4324238 Liberty School is under $15 in the states? that is so not fair to us up north, it retails for about $25 and I see it on menus for $50. Tue Jan 13 20:58:58 -0800 2009 3305083 105701 cleopatra999 1 3305201 Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha - Consistent quality year-to-year. Thu Jan 17 10:38:28 -0800 2008 2632372 72196 spoggly 2 3315789 Seconded! RP gave the 2006 a 91. It is delicious. Big fruit. Sun Jan 20 21:24:52 -0800 2008 3305201 82143 amanda3571 1 3315675 I was really hesitant to pick this one up today, but now I'm glad I did: Castle Rock 2006 Mendocino County Pinot Noir. $9.99 at Trader Joe's. I'm leery of cheap Pinots, and generally pay at least $20, often $30 and up for a bottle. I decanted it for about 45 minutes before dinner, which was rice with chicken and shitake mushrooms, sauteed eggplant and some artichokes. The dinner had lots of olive oil, basil, parsley, garlic, etc., and the wine was delicious with it. It's a light red, with lots of red fruit flavor, and modest tannins. Bright acids cut through the olive oil and dried mushroom richness. Now, an hour after dinner's finished, I've poured a little more, and I'm getting lots of cherries, some vanilla, and a very pleasant finish. Glad I took a chance on this one. Sun Jan 20 20:29:08 -0800 2008 2632372 68466 vickib 1 3315712 Pretty much everything at Blumenhof Winery in Dutzow, Missouri is amazing, and under $15. They no longer allow orders from their website, but you can get wine shipped by calling their 800 number. This year's blends are really good, and the 06 Vignoles really came of age in the last couple of months. Recipes, Restaurant Reviews and More - My Blog: http://www.epicureforum.com Sun Jan 20 20:50:07 -0800 2008 2632372 144280 sirregular 1 3321411 Montecillo Rioja. Great wine, very reasonably priced. Got top 100 in wine spec, i believe. Tue Jan 22 13:32:11 -0800 2008 2632372 141307 mmuch 1 3326982 My house wines: Guigal Cotes du Rhone Beringer Third Century Pinot Noir Chateau St. Michelle Dry Riesling Toasted Head Chardonnay I was very pleasantly surprised by the Beringer because in my search for cheap pinots I had come across many very unbalanced wines. Ultimately the Beringer turned out nice and earthy, with a decent complexity for the price (13). The Guigal is my favorite cotes du rhone at that price point, and I have tried a number of them (but there must be many more I have not). The may not be chateauneuf du pape, but they are a good everyday wine. The Chateau St. Michelle is absolutely crisp and delicious, and a wonderful wine to pair with food. The toasted head is a favorite of my wife - I dig it, being a hefty but decently smooth chardonnay for the price, and not overly oaked. One can probably do better, but it's decently cheap and available. And it has a bear on the front, which obviously matters immensely! Thu Jan 24 04:53:47 -0800 2008 2632372 111310 ericurus 1 3327277 Cuvee de Vezelay from Henry de Vezelay... Vezelay is a small town just south of the Chablis appelation. This wineis just $12, but if it could bear the name "Chablis," I daresay it would be over $20. If you love Chablis, don't pass it by. Thu Jan 24 07:05:41 -0800 2008 2632372 52499 ChefJune 1 3336615 Sebeka 2006 Shiraz, $7.99 at the supermarket. Nicely spicy. I've never paid more than $12 for a bottle and probably never will, but I do like to find a good cheapie. For everyday plonk I admit I've been drinking a lot of $2.99 Golden Gate cab...does the trick when I'm not feeling especially picky. Sat Jan 26 20:00:23 -0800 2008 2632372 160926 Kinnexa 1 3336667 Familia Mayol Malbec 2006 - $14.00 (Argentina) "Intense red violet color. Blackberry, plums and boysenberry with sweet toast aromas. Spice and mineral notes with a long finish. Fresh acidity keeps it mouthwateringly fresh. Sweet tannins blended with oak provide complexity and a velvety and a long mouth final. Balanced, completely mature!" Amantivino.com I love this wine. Always keep a couple of bottles around. www.SouthAmericanEscapes.com/blog Sat Jan 26 20:32:15 -0800 2008 2632372 99738 Jill Brazil 1 4315945 I'm surprised nobody has mentioned Blackstone. I'm pretty much in love with the 2005 Merlot. It's about $8 a bottle. Sun Jan 11 09:10:34 -0800 2009 2632372 256170 FoodieCall 1 4322185 A bottle of Clean Slate Riesling appeared on my shelf over the holidays... undoubtedly a gift that slipped in unnoticed. Anyway, I really enjoyed it enough to see if I could track down a local source. Around$13-15 a bottle, and a find, IMO. Tue Jan 13 10:13:05 -0800 2009 2632372 15050 random amblings 2 4322225 Agree. I have seen that wine under $10 in New England. Nicely done. Tue Jan 13 10:26:38 -0800 2009 4322185 50082 TonyO 3 4325714 Wow, thanks for bringing this up. I first enjoyed Clean Slate as a single glass at a restaurant. I remember it fondly because it was the first indication that I might enjoy riesling and perhaps other white wines more than the reds I had sampled until that time. My girlfriend drinks mainly cabs and other reds somewhere in this price range (often closer to $10), and although I have occasionally thought "Hm, that's not bad" to a few of her choices, more often they are not good to me. She has perhaps slightly different preferences in the wine but mainly I think just doesn't have as picky a palate as I do for it. I have had more luck with reds that are $25-ish but can't buy those all the time. Anyway, the reason I say thanks for bringing it up is because it prompted me to search the Pennsylvania LCB site again, just to see. It had always been a special order item before, so the only time I got a bottle was when I found one while out of state. But now, it's "regular", which means it could well be in stock at any PA state store (you can check the stock online), and it's 12 bucks regular price. They bottle this in a screw top, BTW, just for anyone who cares one way or the other. For me that is a bonus, slightly easier to close up and keep for a day or two. Pretty sure I've had two different vintages and it was consistent. Wed Jan 14 10:28:45 -0800 2009 4322225 40162 CrazyOne 4 4326772 I find that a well made Riesling is just an incredible wine. Those wonderful stone fruits combined with a refreshing minerality is a combination found in no other wine at any price. And the bonus is you can find enjoyable Riesling at affordable prices and incredible Riesling for just a few bucks more. Wed Jan 14 15:03:18 -0800 2009 4325714 50082 TonyO 1 4323043 These are a few that appeal to me. Not a single red in the bunch, though I do sometimes find a Cotes-du-Rhone, or Burgundy that I like. Right now, though, at my local wine store, this is what's available at around $15.00 that I like: Allimant-Laugner N.V. Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rosé $16.99 Domaine Jean Pierre Seve 2007 Macon-Solutre $15.99 Sylvain Bailly 2007 Quincy Beaucharme $15.99 Francois Chidaine 2007 Touraine Sauvignon Blanc $11.99 J. Laurens N.V. Cremant de Limoux Blanc de Blanc $12.99 Monchhof 2007 Estate Riesling $15.99 Carballal 2007 Sete Cepas Albarino Rias Baixas $12.99 Tue Jan 13 13:39:37 -0800 2009 2632372 68466 vickib 2 4332579 Dona Paula and Gascon Malbecs, each avail. around $10-$15. Fri Jan 16 12:05:22 -0800 2009 4323043 117779 lawdog262 3 4333291 Hurray for the Malbecs! Bodegas Norton 2005 Reserva. Fri Jan 16 16:08:42 -0800 2009 4332579 183966 trvlcrzy 3 4822881 Just finished a Gascon Malbec ($12 in Westchester, NY). Very nice, a little spice and acidity. Just bought and am drinking a Terrazas de los Andes 2007 Malbec ($11). this is a bit smoother than the Gascon, more berry than spice to my taste. I find both to be very good, especially for the price. Wed Jul 01 17:58:51 -0700 2009 4332579 149592 iluvcookies 1 4338620 Amberton Cabernet Sauvignon is a pretty decent drink, more than excellent for $5.00 Mon Jan 19 09:01:33 -0800 2009 2632372 124704 Icantread 2 4437077 Just bought another case of 2006 PALESTRA Duero. An amazing Portuguese value for $8 or so. Fri Feb 20 14:45:08 -0800 2009 4338620 18016 Big Fat Moe 3 4454635 I'm sure I've had that one but can't remember it at the moment. One of our big stores has a large Portuguese and Spanish section. From the last mixed case of bottles I bought, the winner was Primavera Bairrada 2005 Riserva. (I wrote about it in some other thread as being "solid.") I need to pick up a case of this. It was about $5.99/btl. Thu Feb 26 11:21:37 -0800 2009 4437077 124191 comestible 4 4547732 I'll have to take back this recommendation. I bought a case of the Primavera and found I was mistaken. It's not *bad,* but I must have been thinking of a different wine. I should have been taking more careful notes. Sorry if I misled any of you. Sat Mar 28 21:32:10 -0700 2009 4454635 124191 comestible 1 4444289 2006 Bitch Grenache South Australia under $15 Mon Feb 23 11:13:17 -0800 2009 2632372 183241 misnatalie 1 4453492 I found some bottles of 1997 Californian Cab Sauvignon for $11 a pop, in Canada no less... Why were they so cheap? It was kosher wine! Not manischewitz, but properly made wine with all the characteristics of a great 1997 Californian Cab Sauv. People just didn't buy it assuming it was sweet garbage. It was called Wente-Segal, if I recall. Thu Feb 26 05:55:33 -0800 2009 2632372 208595 The Chemist 1 4469717 I just bought a case each of Lindeman's Merlot and Pinot Noir for $5/bottle or $60/case. These were both close-out prices as the Ma. liquor outlet was dropping this line(because they could not get a good price from the distributor) and they were going to be carrying Wnydham wines instead. For this price you cannot go wrong!!!---IMO. Catnip Tue Mar 03 11:51:55 -0800 2009 2632372 16716 catnip 1 4482702 Sooooo much great stuff out there. Spain/Portugal & South America are treasure troves of good values. Also check out Juno from South Africa. Both Shiraz & Sauvignon Blanc. Ardales Tempranillo from Spain is a current favorite as well as Casal de Tonda Grilos from Portugal. From South America check out Viu Manent Carmenere, Yali Cabernet/Carmenere, Dona Paula "Los Cardos" Malbec from Argentina. Anything from La Posta or Duriguitti. If you haven't tried Torrontes try La Yunta or Zolo. Aromatic like Gewurztraminer but crisper and drier. Enjoy. Sat Mar 07 12:36:42 -0800 2009 2632372 213427 Iowaboy3 2 4484947 I also have enjoyed the Dona Paula Los Cardos Malbec...will look into the Juno, haven't had South African red in quite a while. Sun Mar 08 14:17:17 -0700 2009 4482702 11983 Val 1 4634911 2005, 2006 Reverdy Sancerre, £10, though I guess bit more in the US perhaps. Lovely wine, a real stand out from the new world Sauvignon Blancs. 2005 Alphonse Mellot Sancerre, £10. See above. 2006 Tamellini Soave, £8, again maybe a bit more in the US. Great Italian wine that shows there is a lot more to Italy than red and pinot grigio. 2006 Trenel Beaujolais, £9. Great French all rounder. Tue Apr 28 03:40:47 -0700 2009 2632372 158180 nanette 1 4637368 2006 Quinta dos Grilos (Portugese red from the Dao region) 1994 Rozes LBV port (it was on sale for $14) Recent vintage of Cuatro Pasos Mencia; a homerun paired with Mexican food. Recent vintage of Marques de Caceres rioja 2007 Castano Monastrell Forgive me for forgetting which years on some of these. Tue Apr 28 17:25:51 -0700 2009 2632372 287007 bricap 1 4830999 Tried Liberty School Cab 2006 from CA, $13.+/- per btl, drinks very well. Sun Jul 05 11:15:10 -0700 2009 2632372 149836 cstr 1 4848434 I'm new to wine (and drinking in general) since recently turning 21, but my friend introduced me to Moscato. I really enjoy Sutter Home's Moscato which is around $5 a bottle, but totally great. Very sweet and good after dinner or in place of margaritas with the girls. It's not sparkling, but there were a few at the local wine store that had Moscato d'Asti's for $10-$15. I think they are great for summer! Fri Jul 10 23:07:53 -0700 2009 2632372 1092700 elledragaled 2 4856500 A good pairing with Moscato's, dark chocolate. Tue Jul 14 05:48:32 -0700 2009 4848434 149836 cstr 1 4853175 I have always loved Bogle's Petite Syrah, as well as Gnarled Vine Zinfandel (2005) which is fantastic. Sometimes you can find a Hayman & Hill pinot noir for around $15.00 as well! Mon Jul 13 06:58:21 -0700 2009 2632372 1090012 Jadezebel 2 5051139 I also tried the Bogle Petite Syrah a few weeks ago, if I remember correctly it had a surpringly earthy and smokey design that I really enjoyed but I also had other guests who couldn't stand it Tue Sep 22 21:52:09 -0700 2009 4853175 75215 hungry_fox 1 4864199 This week I would have to put in a plug for Shinn Estate's NV Red. @ $14, this blend of Cab Franc and Merlot has spice and berries, and is just plain delicious. If you're in the New York area, I recommend a visit to their place in Mattituck (on the North Fork). Thu Jul 16 09:49:49 -0700 2009 2632372 52499 ChefJune 1 5024921 Ballentine 2006 Merlot, $16.50 at the Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant in San Francisco. To me it's more like a great claret than a merlot upon first taste, but I think it's 100% merlot grapes (I might be wrong about that). The guy who sold it to me said he considers it the best merlot in their store, and bargain priced to boot. Rich, smooth, easy to sip alone before or after dinner. I haven't paired it with foods yet because I'm enjoying it so much solo. Sat Sep 12 13:11:39 -0700 2009 2632372 11577 Pei 1 5025048 Easy: Galli & Brocatelli Montefalco Rosso, which early in the decade retailed for under $8.99/bottle, $90/case. Unfortunately, that was when the dollar was high and the euro was low. (sigh) And Leonardo LoCascio's Winebow no longer imports Galli & Brocatelli (double sigh). Today, with the dollar low and the euro high, the equivalent wine (Antonelli Rosso di Montefalco Riserva 2003) has crept over the $20 mark -- we had to pay $23 (single bottle price) for a bottle of the Antonelli last week. The best sub-$15 wine we are drinking in 2009 is Ca' del Sarto Barbera d'Alba currently in the 2007 vintage (we have consumed a lot of the 2006, and the 2007 has proved -- fortunately -- to be very similar), a wine that is a bit fuller, rounder, and softer than the average Piemontese barbera, and which retails here in Oregon for $10 (single bottle price; we get a case for $96). Sat Sep 12 14:18:19 -0700 2009 2632372 278068 Politeness 1 5025859 Bogle Petit Sirah Sun Sep 13 00:50:29 -0700 2009 2632372 206877 jpc8015 2 5187085 second that one, one of my favorites Mon Nov 16 17:44:14 -0800 2009 5025859 1120292 md_massimino 1 5194693 Lately, whenever my travels take me through NJ, I stop into Canal Wines and pick up a case of Paolo Scavino Rosso from Piemonte. It's become one of my favorites alongside pizza and spaghetti & meatballs, and I can usually get it on sale for $14.99. Thu Nov 19 13:27:43 -0800 2009 2632372 49600 CindyJ